In a busy area of Ibadan, there was a man named Mr. Ade who was known for one simple habit—he swept his street every morning before going to work. People often found it strange. The street was public. It wasn’t his responsibility. Yet every day, before sunrise, he would pick up a broom and clean the road. At first, neighbors ignored him. Some even laughed. But Mr. Ade continued. Rain or shine. Week after week. Slowly, something began to change. The street became noticeably cleaner than surrounding areas. People started respecting the environment more. Even those who used to litter began to reduce it. One morning, a young boy asked him why he did it every day even when no one paid him. Mr. Ade smiled and said: “I don’t wait for people to make my environment better. I start with what I can control.” That simple answer stayed with the boy. Years later, that same boy became a community leader who promoted sanitation and civic responsibility. He often remembered Mr. Ade’s example. Many people wait for government, leaders, or others to act first. But real change often begins with individuals taking responsibility. Small actions can influence entire communities over time. What is one small positive action you can consistently do in your environment?
